Tackle Procrastination in 2021: Study Tips

By Paige Greene
Web Content Assistant Manager

We have all been in the situation where you sit down to do your homework and get distracted by your phone, the TV or other media within your vicinity. These distractions lead to procrastination, lackluster work and low grades.

Procrastination is one of the main reasons for low grades and stress among college students. According to Oxford Learning, students who procrastinate experience higher levels of frustration, guilt, anxiety and low self-esteem.

A 2007 study found that approximately 70% of people classify themselves as procrastinators and 50% procrastinate regularly. Therefore approximately 26,600 students at Texas State classify themselves as procrastinators and 19,000 students do so regularly. 

There are a few ways to change this habit that many students practice. One is to follow the common phrase “separate work from play.” Essentially, where you spend your free time should be separate from where you spend your work time. Combining the two increases the likelihood of getting distracted, indulging in procrastination and inevitably poor work. 

In order to achieve professional and academic goals, it is beneficial to leave your apartment or dorm where you spend free time. It is difficult for many students to travel on campus for their classes since the pandemic, but as campuses start transitioning back to in-person classes students should transition to out of bedroom studying.

I often commute early to campus whenever I have classes in order to finish work. By studying on campus or in public, I hold myself accountable to actually getting my tasks done. For some students this place may be a coffee shop, library or outdoors. As long as you get out of your apartment, home or dorm, you are more likely to work efficiently.

Another way to be successful in school is to set a study time. Create a routine by designating a specific time to focus on work. Having a routine lowers stress levels, improves mental health and will result in more time for relaxation.

Designated study times help you devote undivided attention to the matter at hand. This time also helps define when to set aside distractions like your phone or TV. By limiting or getting rid of these distractions, you are able to focus on the work at hand and accomplish more.

With the start of 2021 and a new semester, it can be easy to fall into old habits. These habits cause you unnecessary stress and anxiety, which can be resolved by making these minor adjustments to your routine and schedule. 

Featured image by Paige Greene via Canva